Japan’s leading talent agency, Johnny & Associates, is rebranded as Smile-Up, cutting ties with its founder amid sexual abuse allegations. The agency intends to compensate victims and wind down operations under this new identity.

Johnny & Associates fans submitted a petition, backed by 16,000 signatures, demanding an investigation into sexual abuse allegations against the late founder, Johnny Kitagawa. The agency has responded by pledging improved compliance and considering external consultation for former talent.